Thai Airways International will restart direct flights between Thailand and Belgium on December 1, following a four-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite the lack of direct flights for the past four years, Thailand continues to be a favored holiday destination for Belgians, ranking second only to the United States, as noted by Skander Nasra, the Belgian ambassador to Thailand. At an event announcing the service’s return, he expressed confidence that the revival of direct flights would increase the number of Belgian tourists visiting Thailand beyond pre-pandemic levels.
To enhance trade and investment, Belgium’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will introduce a fast-track visa application service for Thai nationals looking to do business in Belgium.
Mr. Nasra also highlighted that the resumption of flights to Brussels would strengthen Thailand’s connections globally, pointing out that the city is the second diplomatic hub in the world, following Washington D.C.
Belgium aims to finalize the European Union-Thailand Free Trade Agreement, which he believes will benefit both nations’ economies and strengthen ties between the ASEAN and EU regions.
“The return of Thai Airways to Brussels marks a step toward normalcy. I assure you that thousands of Belgians will welcome the sight of THAI aircraft in Brussels,” he commented.
Chai Eamsiri, the CEO of Thai Airways, announced that the airline will operate daily flights to Brussels starting December 1, utilizing Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
“This route’s revival symbolizes our dedication to enhancing bilateral relations and opens up new avenues for trade, tourism, and investment,” he stated.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, 114,016 Belgians visited Thailand in 2019. However, that number dropped to 85,512 last year in the absence of direct flights. With the return of daily flights, Mr. Chai anticipates that the number of Belgian tourists visiting Thailand will surpass 100,000 by year-end.
